Year 9 Advance News

Year 9 ADVANCE Dukes Award Adventurous Journey Practice Camp

Our Year 9 Advance class completed their Dukes Award practice hike at the Rowallan Scout camp located at Riddells Creek. Kindly accompanied by Outdoor Education Teacher, Mr Winduss, we were blessed with reasonable bushwalking weather and the students adapted well to hiking with a backpack and applying bushcraft skills. Sincere thanks to Mrs Borle who attended the camp at late notice – this was very much appreciated. Our next challenge is the Strathbogie Mt Stirling camp in August. Well done, Year 9 Advance class.

Student Camp Reflections

Marianne Nguyen (9L) - I was excited yet nervous at the same time for the Rowallan camp hike since it’s been a few years since I went hiking and camping out in the wild. I had calculated the amount of breaks, which were 5 and the amount of time it would take to get back to the campsite, which was approximately 3 hours. Statistically speaking, I was correct. I was mentally prepared...however I was not physically prepared. I was exhausted, relieved and my legs were aching after the 3 hour hike. Not only that, to add insult to injury, I had to sleep on a bumpy floor, in a cramped tent that did not provide enough space for the body to sleep comfortably. Also, next time I would prepare more healthy food. Overall, the camp was exhausting, fun and very eventful.

May Nguyen (9A) - The practise hike was really fun and I learnt many survival skills. It really put the knowledge of reading topographical maps into use during the orienteering. After the camp, I was tired and drained as I had used so much energy hiking and hanging out with my classmates. Next time I go camping I will pack lighter, bring more layers for warmth, bring more food and pack thicker socks.

Sonya Pham (9C) - This camp was extremely fun. I enjoyed the hike and encouragingly, I managed to walk at a constant pace and the shortcut was fun and interesting. My group produced a delicious meal using the trangia – which was great.

Emily Thompson (9A) - Overall, camp was a wonderful experience. Of course, the walk was quite tiring – however, it was definitely worth it in the end - once we made it back to the campsite! I learnt new skills and was able to socialise with my classmates.

Anna Majstorovic (9D) - This camp was very different from anything else I have really done but I had such a great time and got even closer to everyone in the class. I'm definitely excited to hang out with everyone on the next hike, but not the longer walking distance.

Victoria Truong (9G) - Overall, this camp was such fun and exciting, as I got to experience new things that I have never thought I would.

Marion Mortimer

Year 9 Advance Co-ordinator